F 159 
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HISTORY 




OP THE 



HAETSVILLE 



Ladies' Aid Society. 



Organized November 15, 1861 



PUBLISHED BY THE SOCIET 




W. W. H. DAVIS, PRINTER. 

1867. 



Y> 




HISTORY 



OP THE 



HAET8VILLE 



Ladies' Aid Society^ 



n? 



r? 



Organized November 15* 1861. 



PUBLISHED BY1THE SOCIETY. 




W. Tf. H. DAVIS, PRINTER. 
1867. 



HARTSVILLE LADIES' AID SOCIETY. 

<3 



The firing on Fort Sumter, which so thoroughly aroused the people 
of the United States, reached our little village and awaked the patriotic 
spirit, which the people had inherited from their revolutionary fathers. 
A firm determination to sustain the government by force of arms 
pervaded every heart ; but there seemed no immediate call for action. 
A company left Doylestown for the three months' service ; this was 
the nearest point where military movements were made, and the 
equipping and sending forth of this company required but little 
sacrifice on the part of our quiet people. It was not until after the 
terrible battle of " Bull Eun" and the hospitals at Washington were 
filled with our sick and wounded soldiers, that an appeal was made 
for clothing and delicacies, which reached us. In August, by espe- 
cial effort, a box of clothing and one of delicacies were prepared and 
forwarded to Washington, but as yet the ladies had not felt the 
necessity of forming themselves into a society for continued and 
uniform action. Most persons had looked upon the war as of short 
duration, and although all were ready to work, those nearest the seat 
of war were considered the most favorably situated to show their 
patriotism and sympathy with the soldiers. 

In September, 1861, the 101th Regiment was mustered into 
service in Doylestown, and numbered in it were the sons and brothers 
of those in our immediate vicinity. The war seemed nearer now ; 
" ought we not to be doing something for our soldiers ?" was asked 
by many of our ladies. In October, the 104th Regiment (still 
encamped in Doylestown) proposed to march to Hartsville and spend 
the day in the neighborhood. Although but two days notice was 
given of the plan, a place was prepared for their reception — a large 
assembly gathered to welcome them — and-a sumptuous repast prepared 



4 Hartsville Ladies' 

in a creditable manner ; and to add interest to this unusual occasion, 
speakers were invited to address them. Most of the clergymen in the 
neighborhood were present, and Rev. J. Belville, then residing in 
Hartsville, though away from home, hastened his return, that he 
might T en courage these "citizen soldiers" to go forward to do battle 
for their country. 

Rather surprised at what could be accomplished in a short time, 
when there was concert of action, the ladies began to look about to 
see how they might form a society and work hand in hand for the 
comfort of the soldiers already in the field, little dreaming then 
what a mighty work needed to be performed by the loyal ladies of 
our land. 

Public notice was given from the pulpits that a meeting was to be 
held (in the lecture room of the Neshaminy Church on November 
6th, 1861) with a view of forming a society to work for our soldiers. 
This preliminary meeting was well attended. Rev. D. K. Turner 
was appointed president and Rev. M. Long secretary. The proceed- 
ings were commenced with prayer. Divine blessing was invoked 
upon the new organization about to be formed, and upon those whom 
it designed to benefit. All the meetings of the society in evening 
session were ever afterward closed with prayer, when there was a 
clergyman present, and sometimes by laymen when clergymen were 
not in attentance. No further steps could be taken in this meeting 
than to appoint a committee to draft a constitution and by-laws, to 
report at the next meeting to be held in the same place November 
15th. The committee appointed were Mrs. M. Long, Mrs. D. K. 
Turner, Mr. N. J. Rubinkam. At the second meeting General John 
Davis was called to the chair. The constitution and by-laws, with 
some amendments, were adopted. At the third meeting it was 
resolved from motives of convenience, to hold the subsequent meet- 
ings in the lecture room of the church in Hartsville. 

The meetings of the society were well attended during the entire 
winter. They were the principal resort of all the young people of 
the neighborhood. In the evening it was frequently much crowded. 
The gentlemen did not aid much with the sewing, but caused the 
time to pass quickly, while the young ladies plied the n^les. The 
gentlemen were always ready where their services could be of avail 
— in forwarding boxes, collecting supplies, &c. The young ladies of 
Roseland Institute all became members, and worked with a will. 



Aid Society. 5 

During the winter the Secretary recorded the names of 141 members. 
82 active members, 53 honoray and 6 life members. A person 
became life member by paying $5.00. 

The first work commenced was mittens for the members of the 
104th Regiment, and before Christmas over 100 pairs of woolen 
mittens had been knit and forwarded. Company M, of the 8th 
Pennsylvania Cavalry, of which Captain A. Craven had command, 
was next supplied. Prom that time the attention of the society was 
wholly devoted to the wants of the sick and wounded. The first box 
that was prepared, was forwarded to the Sanitary Commission of 
Philadelphia. The Ladies' Aid of Philadelphia, at this time called 
most urgently for the assistance of the society, and most of the 
boxes for several months were forwarded to that organization. An 
extract from a letter of the secretary of the Ladies' Aid will show 
why their efforts were devoted to that society. The letter is a reply 
to one addresssd by the corresponding secretary to Mrs. Harris, 
(their worker among the soldiers,) requesting some account of her 
visits to the sick. 

My Dear Mrs. Nichols : 

Please excuse my failure to acknowl- 
edge your favor of Jan. 18th earlier. My days have been wholly 
given to the service of our soldiers. Returning late in the evenings 
from the camps, fatigued and weary, more in heart, and head, than 
in body, I could not write in a manner to give satisfaction, and so 
postponed replying to any letters until I could give a day to the 
work — this could not be done so long as I was within visiting distance 
of the Regimental Hospitals. I will give you a sketch of a part of 
last week's work in a hurried manner, and will beg you not to criticise 
style or manner of execution. Monday, Jan. 13th. Hearing of 
much suffering and death among some regiments of sharp shooters 
encamped north of the Capital, filled our carriage with shirts, bed 
ticks, carpet shoes, handkerchiefs, bed clothing, expectorant medi- 
cines, cocoa, corn starch, rags, wine, butter and eggs, and went on 
our sad errand, found much sickness, the surgeons only two for 1500 
men, not all sick, but requiring oversight — wedry and worn, almost 
ready to give up their work. Measles had come amongst them, 
prostrating some hundred of the soldiers ; the attack, in most cases, 
mild in the beginning, but in consequence of neglect, or the difficulty 
of precuring necessary clothing, or other means of precaution against . 
cold, terminating in pheumonia, typhoid fever or malignant sore 
throat. Some thirty have gone beyond the reach of human sympathy 



6 Hartsville Ladies' 

or care. Passing a tent, the Doctor (a kind hearted and good man) 
raised the canvass door and looking in expressed surprise to find'no 
occupants — it was the dead tent. The guard replied, " They have 
just carried out two, and a third is lying in his tent." When I tell 
you that these regiments are composed of the fairest flowers of the 
north, you will have some idea of the feelings, and thoughts, that 
chased through our hearts, and heads, on witnessing such scenes. 
There is some mismanagement and that very palpable. Attention of 
leading benevolent men has been given to these regiments and we 
hope improvement will soon follow, but who can bring back our dead 
soldiers ? Do not think such scenes are of common occurrence, they 
are not — suffering there is, but not springing from neglect. Our 
surgeons, and officers generally consider the sick and do what they 
can, with the means at hand, to promote their health and comfort. 
Everywhere we see the want of good cooks. The diet after all is the 
main thing — better be without surgeons than without good nurses 
and cooks. Visited three other hospitals, leaving such articles as 
were needed, if on hand; if not, we took lists of things absolutely 
necessary to the comfort of the sick. Among them were cough 
medicines, cocoa, spit-cups, feeding cups, tea-spoons, bed pans, &c, 
&c. Returned on Tuesday to an hospital visited the day previous, 
was told a lad from Maine wished to see me. His first question was, 
" Do you think I can be saved V " Yes, my boy, the blood of Jesus 
Christ, His son, cleanses from all sin, only look to Jesus. He is 
able and willing to save." Grave him a card, containing that precious 
hymn, "Just as I am," on one side, and some scripture passages, 
which have comforted so many of our soldiers in death. When I 
saw him again, he was trusting in Jesus, still living when 1 left 
Washington, hope he will live with Jesus forever. On Tuesday, the 
nurse called my attention to another lad from Reading, Pa., who had 
a few minutes before been brought in. Can not forget the anxious ex- 
pression of the dear fellow as we repeated some precious portions as 
food for thought ! He was greatly agitated and told me as I went to 
him, " I am very sick and oh ! so scared," tried to soothe him. He 
caught up the verses of scripture and said, " I learned them in Sunday 
School." Had to leave the poor boy, and when we returned two 
days after, he had gone Home as we humbly hope to Jesus. Other 
scenes of the same kind are constantly occurring, still our soldiers 
are in fine spirits and usual health. 

With regard to all your co-laborers, 

Yours, in the good work, 

MRS. JOHN HARRIS. 

Although the constitution of the society required a meeting but 
once a fortnight, yet the interest manifested demanded weekly nieet- 
ingS) both afternoon and evening, and when there was an urgent 



Aid Society. 7 

appeal for supplies, and there was a desire of forwarding a box imme- 
diately, or when there was quilting to be done, the ladies assembled 
in the morning and worked industriously until 9 o'clock in the evening. 
A box of dry goods was prepared every month, and with it generally 
was sent a box of dried rusk or of delicacies. 

The society had scarcely commenced its operations, until anxiety 
was felt as to how the treasury was to be replenished. The monthly 
stipend was far too small for the demands upon it. A proposition 
was offered for each one, who felt dispose'dj to give a dollar. The 
next proposition was lectures for the benefit of the treasury. Rev. 
Messrs. Long, Turner and Wood were appointed a committee to 
secure lecturers. Rev. Mr. Wadsworth was first invited. He de- 
clined lecturing, but was willing to preach a sermon. He preached 
in the "Neshaminy Church" on January 9th, 1862. There were 
two lectures delivered in the " Hartsville Church" during the winter* 
one by President Allen, of Girard College, and the other by Ex- 
Grovernor Pollock, of Pennsylvania, all of which were highly enter- 
taining and acceptable to the audiences assembled. Collections were 
taken up on the occasions of these lectures, but the treasury was no* 
supplied in accordance with the expectations of the society. A 
committee of gentlemen was appointed to solicit contributions, who 
performed their part well and added $100 to the treasury. 

On the evening of the 22d of February, the society was entertained 
by the reading of " Washington's Farewell Address" and singing of 
the "Star Spangled Banner." 

After the battle of Fair Oaks, many of the wounded were brought 
to Philadelphia, and nursed in St. Joseph's Hospital. A large 
quantity of provisions and delicacies were sent to the hospital for 
their benefit. 

At the meeting of July 4th, the manner of increasing the funds 
was again brought before the society. A mass meeting with the 
s ale of refreshments, was discussed and considered favorably. On 
July 28th, a meeting of all the members of the society, and all 
interested in its success, was called " to take measures for holding a 
Mass Meeting to secure funds in aid of the society, and to promote 
an interest in the community in enlistment to fill the thinned ranks 
of the army, and meet the call of the President for 300,000 new 
troops." To carry out the arrangements for this meeting, fourteen 
separate committees were appointed, who performed willingly, and 



8 Hartsville Ladies' 

efficiently the duties assigned them, and secured the success of the 
undertaking. The meeting was held in the grove of R. H. Darrah, 
August 21st, 1862. Judge Knox of the Supreme Court, and 
Attorney General of Pennsylvania, Morton McMichael, Esq., of 
Philadelphia, and Colonel John W. Forney were secured as speakers. 
" Parson" Brownlow, though confidently expected, was obliged to 
be absent. The Hatborough Brass Band contributed the music. 

This Mass Meeting was a grand success. The weather was warm, 
and the roads dusty, but the people of the surrounding neighbor- 
hood and from more distant parts of the country swarmed to the 
place of gathering in numbers that seemed to have no end. A 
large stand had been erected for the speakers and for the brass band. 
There were tables loaded with refreshments of various kinds, and 
attended by ladies, who had business on hand in abundance. The 
ice cream table did the most active business. Rev. J. Belville, the 
firm friend of the society from its origin, was appointed President ; 
Rev. M. Long and Mr. Geo. Jamison, Secretaries. Nine soldiers of 
the war of 1812, who were present, were appointed Vice Presidents. 
The following resolutions, which will show the spirit which actuated 
the men and women who worked so hard on that day, were read and 
adopted : 



Resolutions of Mass Meeting, 
August 21st, 1862. 

Resolved, That civil government is of God, and that obedience 
to its legitimate authority is one of the first solemn duties of man j 
that the government of the United States is the most legitimate 
government on the earth, originating not in any usurpation of an 
individual or of a class, but in the voluntary delegation of power by 
those to whom alone God has given the right to exert or delegate it, 
viz, the people ; that therefore the American Constitution as it is, 
(until amended, as is provided), is God's law to the American people; 
that as a people we owe devout thanksgiving to God, not only for 
the excellence of the Government under which we live, and for the 
wonderful series of providences, by which its privileges were at first 
secured and have been continued to us, but for the fidelity with which 
it has been ordinarily and is now administered ; and that to this 
Government it is the duty of every citizen of the whole United 



Aid Society. 9 

States to render true allegiance, and to give his means, his influence, 
and if need be, his blood, to the maintenance of its authority. 

Resolved, That the so-called Southern Confederacy is a rebellious 
usurpation both causeless and wanton; that it is not justified nor in 
the least extenuated by any pretended wrong ever suffered by the 
citizens of the Southern States at the hands of the Grovernment, 
against which they have rebelled ; and that therefore the war 
inaugurated by the Southern Secession against the United States, 
is an attrocious crime against Heaven and earth, which should bring 
down the judgment of G-od, and the execration of man upon every 
citizen of the North or South, of our own or other lands, who aids, 
abets, or sympathizes with the same. 

Resolved, That it is the duty of the Gfovernment to maintain its 
authority by force, not only for the preservation of its integrity and 
of the rights and liberties of its own citizens, but for the maintenance 
of the great principles of self-government and the rights of men, 
now imperilled by the most deadly assaults they have ever sustained 
at the hands of despotic power; and that to this end it is the duty of 
the people to respond with cheerfulness to every demand of the 
Grovernment for means and men until the last vestige of rebellion is 
•swept from the land, and the government of the United States is 
restored to its wonted integrity, and that all resistence by word or 
deed to necessary taxation or draft, though not so daring, is as ini- 
quitous as avowed rebellion. 

Resolved, That the most devout gratitude of the American 
people is due to the most High Grod, that in this hour of peril He 
has given us a President wise, honest, firm, and actuated by a true 
patriotism that has raised the Presidential chair, as it should be, 
above the arena of party strife ; that in the Grovernment as organized, 
we recognize the representative, not of a political party, but of the 
American people ; that it is the duty of every good citizen, without 
distinction of party, to rally around the President and sustain him 
in his laudable efforts to subdue rebellion, and that all endeavors to 
revive party spirit, to perpetuate party distinctions, and to create 
prejudice against the President and his administrations, are fraught 
with peril to the best interests of our land, no less than open treason. 

Resolved, That thanks are due to the young men of our land who 
have volunteered for their country's defence; that we mourn the dead ; 
that we sympathize with the sick and wounded, that we would 
encourage the living to deeds of bravery by the assurance of our 
grateful remembrances, our sympathy, aid and fervent prayers. We 
will cherish the memory of all, and commend their deeds to the grat- 
itude and imitation of posterity. 
2 



10 Hartsville Ladies' 

Resolved, That the gratitude of the country and of posterity is 
due to the patriotic women of our land, and to none more than to 
those by whose invitation we are here to-day, for their faithful and 
self-denying services on the behalf of the sick and wounded of our 
army. 

Resolved, That we neither ask nor expect sympathy or aid of 
despots or their willing slaves : but commend our cause in faith to 
Freedom's God, pledging to that cause ourselves till death. 



The speeches made on the occasion were able, eloquent, and 
patriotic, and filled the hearts of the people with a true patriotism, 
and encouraged those who had so lately given up their dearest earthly 
friends for their country's cause j for on that very day Company G f 
of the 128th Regiment, which was composed of the young men of 
the neighborhood, were on their way to the seat of war. 

The ladies had their hearts rejoiced and felt themselves amply 
rewarded for their arduous labor by finding their treasury increased 
by $500. And they began to work with still greater zeal. Apples, 
Onions, and dried rusk were sent with other supplies. A load of 
provisions was sent to the Hospital at Grermantown. 

At the close of the first year an election of officers was held, by 
which the officers of the former year were all retained and received 
a vote of thanks for their faithful discharge of duty. The society 
held its first anniversary meeting in the Hartsville chnrch and was 
addressed by the Rev. G-eo. Mingins, of Huntingdon Valley, who had 
labored among the soldiers under the direction of the Christian Com- 
mission. He related many incidents of sad interest that he had been 
called upon to witness. 

In taking a review of the work of the first year, the society had 
forwarded 13 boxes and two loads of provision, valued in all at 
1843.33. 

During the second year there was still more work accomplished 
than during the first. In the winter the young men were called 
upon to collect funds, and this time increased the amount in the 
treasury by $130. In the spring vacation of Roseland Institute, that 
building was kindly offered as a place to hold a social festival, which 
was galdly accepted. The entertainment took place April 2d, 1863. 
The school room was handsomely decorated with evergreens and 
fitted up for the sale of refreshments. The other rooms were pre- 



Aid Society. 11 

pared for the reception and entermaininent of the guests of whom 
about 200 were present. Patriotic songs were sung and played, and 
with social conversation and games, the evening passed away delight- 
fully j when the company left $100 was in the hands of the treasurer. 

Encouraged by the success of the first Mass Meeting, all were 
ready to engage in another, which was held in the same grove on 
the 10th of September, 1863. The same committees, with a few 
added, acted as before, and the meeting was conducted in the same 
manner. Rev. J. Belville was appointed President, and forty-eight 
of our noble young men, who had been in the military service of the 
United States or of Pennsylvania, were chosen Vice Presidents. 

The president in his opening address announced two very impor- 
tent items of news just received. 1st. That the northern traitor, 
Clement L. Valandigham, was no longer within the boundary of the 
United States. 2d. That Morris Island had been evacuted by the reb- 
els. Both of which were received with loud cheers from all patriotic 
hearts. The audience listened attentively to eloquent and earnest 
speeches from Judge Knox and from Rev. Mr. McAuley of Phila- 
delphia, who had been the soldiers friend upon the Battle Field and 
in the Hospital. 

The meeting, though not so large as the first, was a very pleasant 
one, and secured to the friends of the society $370.00. 

During this year 10 boxes had been forwarded, valued at $1278.22, 
sent mostly to the Ladies Aid of Philadelphia ; some placed at the 
disposal of that organization, and others with directions where we 
wished them to be sent. 

At the election of officers at the close of the second year, on 
account of the death of the Vice President and resignation of the 
Recording Secretary, Miss Mary Graven was chosen Vice President, 
and Mrs. J. L. Widdifield, Recording Secretary. The other officers 
were retained. 

In the early part of the winter a correspondence was commenced 
with Miss. Pollock (a friend of several members of the society). 
In reply to our inquiries, the following letter was received. 

St. Elizabeth Hospital, | 
Washington, D. C, Dec. 14, 1863. j 

To the Ladies 1 Aid Society of Hartsville : 

Dear Friends : — I received a letter from your secretary, 



12 Hartsville Ladies' 

stating, that you intended to send me a box .of hospital stores for 
distribution among needy soldiers, and wish to know what is most 
needed. I will relate some facts that will give you an idea of our 
wants. 

I got back from my furlough October 14th. Within three days we 
received more than one hundred patients from Meade's army. Some 
were sick from the hospitals on the field and many worn out from 
■severe marching. Of the whole number there were not twenty that 
had socks fit to put on again. In two or three weeks half of them 
were sent to regiments or transported to their State Hospitals. They 
were not paid during the time they were here, and could not buy. 
They had not their descriptive lists and could not draw — they must 
have socks when they were going away. If we know it we never 
allow a man to go to his regiment without comfortable clothes, if by 
any possible means we can supply their wants. Two months ago a 
boy went away ; Mrs. P. (a nurse) gave him good clothes which she 
had received in a box. Six weeks after he wrote to know if she 
could send him a shirt. In a fight near Brandy Station they were 
going " double quick ;" he has an affection of the lungs, and to save 
himself had to throw away his knapsack, so that all the six weeks he 
wore the same shirt. He took it off sometimes to wash and put it 
on as soon as dry. Two weeks ago another of our number had a 
letter from a boy in Convalescent Gamp asking for a woolen shirt. 
He had been a patient, but was an attendant when I came here more 
than a year ago. He was in a Hospital in Philadelphia all summer, 
and on his way from there to Convalescent Camp he lost his clothes 
and was without money. I went to the Penna. Relief Association 
in Washington, told them his history : they gave me a shirt and 
socks which were sent to him. He has since gone to his regiment. 
I have an amputated case who came several months ago for his 
wooden leg. A few weeks ago gangrene showed itself in his stump, 
and last week he was taken with rheumatism ; he cannot move at all, 
not even his hands. Another came in from camp two months ago 
with camp dysentery, and the disease now seems to have assumed a 
chronic form. His diet has consisted wholly of crackers and boiled 
milk, with occasionally an egg. I have bought a quart of milk 
every day since he came. At times it seems impossible for him to 
recover, but within the last few days he is better. For such cases 
flannel is indispensable. Another boy of eighteen years from New 
York got his wooden leg two months ago ; got his discharge and what 
money was due him and was all ready to go home. His discharge 
and money were stolen, so that he is here yet, and will have to get 
another discharge which will be some trouble. He is not receiving 
pay as he is discharged ; the rest of the < boys have made up the 
money to him, but his parents are poor and" I would like to send him 
away with good clothes. I might tell any number of such cases that 
are constantly coming before us, and the only means of supplying 



Aid society. 13 

their wants is from resources furnished by people at home. Mrs P. 
sometimes gets boxes from her friends in New York, but at present ' 
she has nothing of the kind on hand. The supply of socks that can 
be drawn for hospital use is limited, and they are not of a superior 
quality. Flannel shirts cannot be drawn at all for hospital use. We 
occasionally get a few shirts from the Sanitary Commission, but you 
can easily understand that all these wants cannot be met by a few. 
We darn and patch socks that I venture to say the most careful of # 
your number would think was only fit to be thrown away. As to 
the provisions of which you spoke, anything would be useful and 
acceptable which you would use in your own families. Farina, corn- 
starch and crackers we get as we need from our Commissary. I 
regret to say that what we most need you cannot send, namely, milk 
and eggs. Please send by express, take a receipt and forward to me, 
that I may present it at the office, otherwise I may have trouble. * * * 
With high appreciation of your kindness, 

I am yours, truly, 

MAKY POLLOCK. 



After which several boxes were sent to her, and many letters of 
interest received. The society became very much interested in 
making quilts ; about twenty quilts in all were made, some of them 
" Album Quilts," which were afterwards bestowed to the soldiers, on 
whose beds they had been used, and who had become attached to 
their bright colors, and interested in the names written on them. A 
letter was received from a lady in Washington asking this favor on 
behalf of the soldiers. 

Washington City, Nov. 8th, 1884. 

Secretary Soldiers' Aid Society, Hartsville, JPenna. : 

This is a cold, disagreeable evening, and with your permission, 
I am going to have a good long chat with the members of the 
" Hartsville Aid Society/' If I monopolize too much time, I know 
you will pardon me for I am going to speak of the' soldiers who have 
suffered and endured more than we, surrounded with every comfort, 
we can ever realize, or they can ever tell. I have just returned from 
my almost daily visit to the " Judiciary Square Hospital." Ward 
10 I found quite in a commotion over some Album Quilts Miss Pol- 
lock had been distributing, and also enjoying, not a little, some good, 
fresh butter received from your society some three days since. The 
young men to whom the butter was more particularly sent, I assure 
you, fully appreciated your kindness, and in coming years, after this 



14 Hartsville Ladies' 

War shall have ended, and this terrible struggle for Liberty sball 
be among the things that have long since passed away, will these 
maimed soldiers look back upon their Hospital days, and recall much 
that is pleasant, for although their sufferings were terribly severe, 
and their longing for home comforts and the dear familiar faces 
almost beyond endurance — still mingled with these were many kind 
words, and noble deeds received at the hands of strangers that they 
can never forget. No matter how trivial the act, I believe it is treas- 
ured in the roughest soldier's heart, and perhaps has a refining influ- 
ence that may lead him to higher things. I think if every loyal 
woman knew how far a kind word or even a kind look went, the 
Hospitals where our brave boys are lying sick, wounded and dying, 
would be more frequently and more cheerfully visited. 

Each of these four young men is seriously wounded, and has 
beside been very ill. Three, Charles Stewart, James Dickson, 
(Reg. Army), and Concannon have had a leg amputated. Serg't 
Charles Hasseltine was wounded in the knee joint. All in the battle 
of the Wilderness. Hasseltine is still confined to his bed, he has 
been improving quite rapidly until the last few days — his wound is 
breaking out again — the others are able to be about somewhat, though 
they do not venture out of the ward. They are all intelligent and 
gentlemanly young fellows. Dickson is very anxious to take his 
quilt home with him, as it would be a pleasing souvenir in after 
years. He is quite young, ran off from home at sixteen to join the 
army. But his father was soon on his track, and took him back. 
Being a firm believer in the old proverb, " if at first you don't succed, 
try, try again," he made another attempt, and was successful. He 
served his country faithfully until he lost his right leg. In a few 
weeks he will return home, not regretting, however, that he entered 
the army. If the ladies and gentlemen who have ornamented his 
quilt with their names think he is deserving of it for a keepsake, he 
would appreciate the gift highly. I appeal to Col. Wright as the 
Superior Officer and Mrs. Taylor as the oldest. 

Of Miss Pollock, /need say but little. Very many of you know 
her personally — all by reputation. I am well acquainted with her 
through her patients, who all speak of her in terms of the highest 
praise. She has endeared herself to those in her care by her sincere 
interest in their welfare — her watchful tenderness, and her untiring 
devotion. She would not hesitate a moment to do and to give any- 
thing in her power to promote the comfort and happiness of those 
entrusted to her keeping. The reward of such women will surely 
be great. But it will not come in this world, for it will be a reward 
higher and holier than this world can give. Certainly the beautiful 
lines of Longfellow are applicable, 

" Let us then be up and doing with a heart for any fate, 
Still achieving, still pursuing, learn to labor and to wait." 



Aid Society. 15 

The Hospitals are at present almost deserted, many of the inmates 
have heen discharged, many forloughed, and some transferred. All 
convalescent, that are able, have gone home to vote; but if there is 
another battle the wards will be rapidly filled up ; and again will the 
solemn beating of the drum and the continual passing of ambulances, 
impress us still more forcibly with the magnitude of this cruel war, 
and remind us of still other hearthstones left desolate. And while 
the mother, wife or sister is praying at home for the protection of 
him who is nearest and dearest — the loved one cold and lifeless 
wrapped in the flag he has so nobly defended, is perhaps being carried 
to his last resting place and laid in his narrow bed on the Heights of 
Arlington. He and they who are lying beside him have fought their 
last battle, and whilst the owner of that grandeur is now our country's 
most dreaded foe, and is striking at the very heart of the nation, 
they sweetly and calmly sleep on the banks of the blue Potomac, and 
from- the Dome of the Nation's Capitol the Groddess of Liberty 
reverently guards their slumbers. Little did General Lee think six 
years ago that his old homestead would be converted into a cemetery 
for those he would slay in battle. But I am forgetting myself. I 
have already occupied more of your time than I intended. I thank 
you for listening so patiently. The only apology I have to offer for 
my intrusion is that I am a loyal woman and a friend of the soldier 
wherever he may be found. I believe your society is doing much 
good, and I hope your efforts in behalf of the soldiers will be zeal- 
ously continued until the union is restored and our gallant heroes 
shall doff their warlike garments and don the habiliments of peace. 

With many good wishes for the success, happiness and prosperity 
of all connected with the Hartsville Aid Society, and a sincere 
sympathy with them in their noble endeavors to contribute to the 
welfare of our soldiers, and thanking you all heartily in behalf of 
those who have been the recipients of your kindness, 

I am, your friend, 

ANNIE S. WAY. 



In February a call was made for assistance for the suffering refugees 
of East Tennessee. A committee of ladies was appointed to collect 
money for that purpose. At the next meeting the committee reported 
they had collected $90. An appeal reaching the society for clothing 
for the refugees at Cairo about the same time, the society divided 
the money, sending $50 to East Tennessee, and $40 worth of clothing 
,to Cairo. 

The next expedient to increase the funds of the society was an 
invitation to Signor Blitz. March 21st he gave two entertainments 
in behalf of the society in the lecture room of the Neshaminy Church. 



16 Hartsville Ladies' 

The performance was so attractive that the room was crowded so that 
standing room could not be found for the audience; every available 
corner of the room was filled ; at length the floor gave way, and 
lowered part of the crowd about two feet, where they reached "terra 
firma" without injuring any one. After Signor Blitz had been com- 
pensated for his services, $85 remained for the treasurer. 

Among the minutes of March 25th, 1864, we find the following. 
Inasmuch as one of the esteemed members of our society, Rev. J. 
Belville, is about to move from our midst, on motion, the society 
resolve unanimously to return a vote of thanks to him for the deep 
interest he has ever manifested in us as a society from its commence- 
ment until the present time, and for the many and efficient services he 
has rendered us, always ready to devise plans and co-operate with us 
in every measure tending to promote the best interests of the society. 
We deeply lament the loss of such a member, but our loss will, in 
all probability, be gain to another similar organization. Our best 
wishes attend him. 

Miss Pollock, in order to show how highly the soldiers under her 
care appreciated the gifts of the society, sent a package containing 
articles manufactured by " her hoys." These articles on being 
received were sold to members of the society at public sale, and were 
bought as momentoes of soldiers' gratitude. 

About the middle of July, the propriety of holding a third Mass 
Meeting for the benefit of the society began to be contemplated. 
Similar arrangements to those made on former years were made. 
The meeting was held on the 18th of August, 1864. Rev. M. Long 
was president of the meeting. The large audience assembled was 
addressed by Rev. J. Belville, Rev. T. DeWitt Talmadge, of Phila- 
delphia, and by George H. Stuart, Esq., President of the United 
States Christian Commission. The assembly was much interested in 
the remarks of all these gentlemen, especially those of Mr. Stuart, 
who gave many moving and interesting statements in reference to 
the sufferings and hardships of our heroic defenders in the army; 
and the work of supplying their wants, both temporal and spiritual, 
in which the Christian Commission is engaged. The gain accruing 
to the society from this effort was $540. 

A Hospital having been established at White Hall, in our county, 
near Bristol, on the Delaware river, and the society hearing that 
much good could be done to the suffering there by visiting them, 



Aid Society. 17 

and taking supplies, a representative was appointed to go with one 
from the Warminster society to spend a week at the Hospital ; to 
take supplies and ascertain whether it was expedient to turn our 
efforts more particularly to that point ; and whether it was advisable 
to keep a representative there. The representative returned after 
staying a week, but finding the surgeons acknowledged no such 
assistants in their arrangements, together with the inconvenience of 
getting to and from the Hospital, the subject was dropped, and the 
work continued as before. 

At the end of this year an election of officers was held. Mrs. N. 
J. Rubinkam was elected Vice President, and the former officers 
retained. The anniversary meeting was held Nov. 6th. The exercises 
were opened with prayer by Rev. J. Belville. A history of the so- 
ciety from its foundation was read by Rev. D. K. Turner. The meeting 
was then addressed by Rev. J. Belville and Rev. Mr. Atkinson, 
agent of the Christian Commission. Many of the incidents he 
related were interesting and touching, especially to many who had 
lately lost friends in their country's service. After the address, a 
collection was taken up for the Christian Commission, amounting to 
$75. After prayer by Rev. D. K. Turner, the congregation retired 
with new interest in the spiritual and temporal welfare of our brave 
countrymen who were enduring the hardships of war in our defence. 

The society having continued its work uninterruptedly for over 
three years, and no " holiday had seen," it was proposed to have a 
social entertainment — a Christmas Dinner, in the usual place of 
meeting, prepared by the members. The day proved a very pleasant 
one — the repast a bountiful one of turkey, chickens, mince pie, and 
all that belongs to Christmas Dinner, and was highly enjoyed by all 
that partook. 

In fitting out the boxes it was proposed to send comfort bags, which 
proposition was acted upon cheerfully : and from the size and quantity 
of the bags, the soldiers received much comfort, and the letters 
received in answer to those sent .ki the bags, were read in the society 
and listened to with much interest. 

The society continued its regular meetings, and worked with its 

accustomed energy and activity — rejoicing in the victories, and 

often speculating as to how long the work of the society would be 

needed. All were preparing for a general rejoicing, when the war 

should close, and our victorious troops should be welcomed home. 
3 



18 Hartsville Ladies' 

When suddenlj, by the sad news of the death of the beloved Presi- 
dent of the United States, their rejoicing was forgotten, and the 
room where the society had held its meetings for three years and a 
half, was draped in mourning. The following resolutions were read 
and adopted: 



Resolutions 
ON THE DEATH OF PRESIDENT LINCOLN. 



Whereas, Abraham Lincoln, late President of the United States, 
was shot by a vile assassin on the evening of April 14th, 1865, and 
died after an interval of a few hours, and 

Whereas, We, the members of this Society, feel called upon to 
express unitedly our sense of the dreadful enormity of this atrocious 
crime, and the great loss the nation has experienced. 

Resolved, That we lament with unfeigned and deep regret, the 
sudden and violent death of our Chief Magistrate, whose vigor, 
wisdom, and prudence have under G-od brought us apparently so near 
to the end of the rebellion, and to the enjoyment once more of the 
manifold blessings of peace. 

Resolved, That we regard his death as a great national calamity, 
in that it deprives us of a Ruler, whose sagacity, firmness, and 
exalted patriotism have been tried through four years of war almost 
unparalleled upon the pages of history, in the magnitude of the 
armies engaged", the number of battles fought, of cities and towns 
taken, and the length of marches performed by our brave and victo- 
rious troops. 

Resolved, That as it was the will of Providence, that he should 
die while in his second term of the Presidential office, we rejoice 
that he was preserved from the deadly plots of the enemies of our 
government, until he saw the capital city of the rebellion taken, 
its armies nearly all vanquished, and its leaders compelled to flee for 
their lives. 

Resolved, That we execrate the awful and daring deed by which 
he was killed, and trust that the perpetrator and his accomplices may 
be brought to speedy and condign punishment. 

Resolved, That we sympathize deeply with the bereaved family, 



Aid Society. 19 

and pray that they may be sustained by a compassionate Savior in 
in their severe affliction. 



Richmond had been taken — Lee's army surrendered — Jefferson 
Davis captured — our brave boys were coming home. The society 
had completed the work for which it had been commenced. What 
was left in the treasury must be contributed to the comfort of the 
maimed and disabled. 

Miss Pollock being on a visit to her friends in Hartsville, after 
four years of self-sacrificing labor, having given her time, ease, and 
comfort, that she might, as far as possible, contribute to the comfort 
of the soldiers, the society desiring to show their appreciation of her 
labors and sacrificices, presented her with $50 from their fund. The 
society commenced to dispose of the material on hand, and prepare 
the way for closing its operations. A meeting was appointed the 
first Friday in September to take into consideration the proper mode 
of disposing of the remaining fund. Nothing definite being decided, 
the meeting adjourned till the first Friday in December. At that 
meeting $25 were given to a soldiers widow in the neighborhood, 
and $50 to the " City Pastor."* A meeting held first Friday in 
August, voted the remaining money, $200, to the Soldier's Home, 
in Philadelphia. 

*He was engaged in providing for the spiritual and temporal wants of the 
needy soldiers, widows and orphans of soldiers, in Philadelphia. 



20 Hartsville Ladies' 

Constitution and By-Laws 

OF THE 

LADIES' SOLDIERS AID SOCIETY OP HARTSVILLE. 



CONSTITUTION. 

Preamble — Prompted by a desire to sustain the hands and en- 
courage the hearts of those who are so nobly contending for the- 
preservation of our Union, we, the Ladies of Hartsville and vicinity, 
have resolved to form ourselves into an association, the object of 
which shall be to afford aid and comfort to the sick and wounded of 
our Army and Navy, and to provide for those in active service such 
necessary clothing as is not furnished by the G-overnment. 

We do hereby adopt the following Constitution. 

Art. 1st. This Society shall be called the " Soldiers Aid Society 
of Hartsville." 

Art.. 2d. The officers of this Association shall consist of a Presi- 
dent, Vice President, Corresponding Secretary, Recording Secretary, 
Treasurer, and a Board of Managers, to be chosen annually on the 
first Wednesday in November. 

Art. 3d. It will be the duty of the President to preside at all the 
meetings, and direct the operations of the Association. 

Art. 4th. The duty of the Vice President will be to take the 
place of the President in the absence of that officer. 

Art. 5th. The Corresponding Secretary shall have charge of the 
correspondence. 

Art. 6th. The Recording Secretary shall keep a record of all the 
business transacted by the Association, the names of the members 
and officers, and shall at the opening of each meeting read the record 
of the preceding meeting. 

Art. 7th. The Treasurer shall receive all moneys paid to the 
Association, pay all bills as authorized by the officers, keep an accu- 
rate account of all the receipts and expenditures, and report to the 
Association at least once a month. 

Art. 8th. It shall be the duty of the Managers to co-operate 
with the President in devising and adopting such measures as shall 
to them seem most desirable to render the Association most efficient ; 



Aid Society. 21 

also to solicit contributions, as the condition of the treasury may 
demand. 

Art. 9th. Any person may become a member of this Association 
by the payment of twenty-five cents into the Treasury, after that a 
monthly payment of ten cents. 

Gentlemen will be considered Honorary Members of the Associa- 
tion by the payment of the sum above stated, and entitled to advise 
and consult with the members. 

Art. 10th. This Constitution shall not be altered or amended 
except by a vote of two-thirds of the members present at a regular 
meeting, and any amendment must be proposed at least four weeks 
before its adoption. 

BY-LAWS. 

Art. 1st. The meetings of the Officers of the Association shall 
be held once a month. 

Art. 2d. The regular meeting for work of all interested, shall be 
held once a fortnight at such times and place as shall be decided 
upon by a majority of the members. 

Art. 3d. The purchasing committee shall consist of two indi- 
viduals, who shall take their directions from the Board of Managers. 

Art. 4th. The Committee on work and supplies shall consist of 
four persons, who' shall arrange and inspect the work, and collect 
such articles as may be needed for Hospitals, and report monthly. 

Art. 5th. The President shall take charge of all stores and ap- 
propriate them according to the advice and counsel of the Asso- 
ciation. 

Art. 6th. Amendments to these By-Laws may be made by a vote 
of the majority of the members of the Association present at a reg- 
ular meeting. Every amendment must be proposed at least two 
weeks before its adoption. 

The society was permanently organized by electing the following 
named persons as 

Officers. 

President — Miss E. N. Davis. 
Vice President — Mrs. D. K. Turner. 
Corresponding Secretary — Mrs. E. Nichols. 
Recording Secretary — Miss J. K. Long. 
Treasurer — Mrs. M. Glasgow. 



22 



Hartsvihe Ladies' 



Mrs. Erwin, 
Miss A. Beans, 
Miss Rachel Long, 
Mrs. Mearns, 



Managers. 

Mrs. Rubinkam, Mrs. Mathews, 

Miss J. Horner, Mrs. Widdifield, 

Mrs. Addis, Miss M. Craven. 

Mrs. J. V. Craven. 
Purchasing Committee — Mrs. Addis, Mrs. Turner. 
Committee of Work — Mrs. Mann , Mrs. Freeland, Miss Mary 
Craven, Mrs. Widdifield. 

Packing and Forwarding Committee — Mrs. Turner, Mrs. Nichols, 
Mrs. Widdifield, Messrs. Widdifield and Darrah. 
Committee on Room — Messrs. Jamison and Long. 



]\£e:m.bers. 



LIFE MEMBERS 



Rev. J. Belville, 
Rev. Mahlon Long, 
Rev. D. K. Turner, 
Rev. A. M. Woods, 
Gen. John Davis, 



Mrs. Mahlon Long, 
Mrs. Charles Long, 
Mrs. D. K. Turner, 
Miss E. N. Davis, 
Miss Mary Pollock. 



HONORARY MEMBERS. 



Wm. P. Ames, 
Stacy B. Beans, 
Harman Y. Beans, 
J. M. Boileau, 
C. Bowers, 
O. D. Bowers, 
Joseph Barnsley, 
Rev. J. Belville, 
Jos. Belville, 
J. Carter, 
Hugh Carrell, 
Wm. H. Conard, 
R. Croasdale, 
Ezra Carrell, 
J. D. Duffield, 



Geo. Jamison, jr., 

J. Laverell, 

Rev. Mahlon Long, 

S. F. Long, 

Jos. Lear, 

R. G. S. McNeille, 

J. McGraudy, 

A. E. M. Miles, 

T. W. Meredith, 

C. Meredith, 

N. D. Marple, 

Dr. W. Mathews, 

John Polk, 

N. J. Rubinkam, 

Wm. Rubinkam, 



Aid Society. 



23 



Gen. John Davis, 
R. H. Darrah, 
J. M. Darrah, 
James Field, 
J. Flack, 
Wm. Glasgow, 
Jos. Hart, 
B. F. Hart, 
J. Jamison, 
B. T. Jamison, 
Wm. Jamison, sr., 
Wm Jamison, jr., 
Gr. W. Jamison, 
J. R. Jones, 



Smith Radcliffe, 
Charles Ramsey, 
Henry Robinson, 
H. C. Stuckert, 
Geo. Taylor, 
Rev. D. K. Turner, 
J. L. Widdifield, 
Rev. A. M. Woods, 
Watson Wood, 
Isaac Wood, 
W. W. Whitecar, 
Harman Yerkes, 
Hutchinson Yerkes. 



LADIES' NAMES. 



Mrs. S Y. Addis, 
Miss Anna C Beans, 
Mrs. Geo. Brown, 
Miss Jane E. Bothwell, 
Mrs. Eliza H. Brown, 
Miss M. C. Brodie, 
Miss J. Blair, 
Mrs. C. S. Belville, 
Miss Maria Belville, 
Miss Mary Belville, 
Miss Kate Belville, 
Miss Carrie Belville, 
Miss Letitia Buyers, 
Miss E. S. Baird, 
Miss Eliza Carr, 
Mrs. Hugh Carrell, 
Mrs. Ezra Carrell, 
Miss M. H. Craven, 
Mrs. Jane V. Craven, 
Miss Ellen Croasdale, 
Miss Mary Cornell, 
Miss J. Carr, 



Miss Louisa Janvier, 
Miss Rachel Long, 
Miss A. E. Long, 
Miss A Long, 
Mrs. C B. Long, 
Miss J. R. Long, 
Mrs. Andrew Long, 
Mrs. Anna Long, 
Mrs. Mary Lowere, 
Miss Susan Mann, 
Mrs. Wm. Mann, 
Miss C. V. Marple, 
Miss S. E. Marple, 
Mrs. W. Mathews, 
Mrs. A. Mearns, 
Miss Anna Myers, 
Miss Louisa McCarter, 
Miss Hannah McNair, 
Miss E. M. Mcllvaine, 
Miss E. J. Mitchell, 
Miss Mary McNeille, 
Mrs. Emily Nichols, 



24 



Hartsvillk Ladies' 



Miss Kate Darrah, 
Miss Rebecca Darrah, 
Miss E. N. Davis, 
Mrs. A T. Duffield, 
Mrs. Ellen Darrah, 
Mrs. Stephen Decoursey, 
Miss Susan Dungan, 
Mrs. W. W H. Davis, 
Miss Rebecca Ely, 
Mrs. R. T. Engart, 
Mrs. A. M. Erwin, 
Miss A. M. Erwin, 
Miss Everhart, 
Mrs. J. Field, 
Mrs. E. Freeland, 
Miss Susan M. French, 
Miss M. A. Flack, 
Mrs. M. B. Glasgow, 
Miss I. J. Glasgow, 
Miss Elizabeth Hart, 
Miss Mary Hart, 
Miss Ann Eliza Hart, 
Miss Jane Horner, 
Mrs. Joseph Hart, 
Mrs. James Horner, 
Miss Emma Jamison, 
Miss Phebe Jamison, 
Miss Rachel Jamison, 
Miss Jane Jamison, 
Miss Maria Jamison, 
Mrs. Wm. Jamison, 
Mrs. Annie Jamison, 



Mrs. J. Neilds, 
Mrs. Mary Polk, 
Miss Helen Paxson, 
Miss Helen Rich, 
Miss V. Robinson, 
Miss F. Rubinkam, 
Mrs. N. J. Kubinkam, 
Mrs. S. Snyder, 
Mrs. Louisa Spencer, 
Mrs. Wm. Stuckart, 
Miss S. E. Stuckart, 
Miss Charlotte Spottswood, 
Miss V. Thomas, 
Miss A. Thompson, 
Miss E. Thompson, 
Mrs. Taylor, 
Miss Jane Thompson, 
Mrs. Rachel Turner, 
Miss A. Vanuxem, 
Mrs. F. C. H. Widdifield, 
Miss Mary Watson, 
Miss Jane Watson, 
Mrs. Caroline Whiting, 
Mrs. E Wynkoop, 
Miss Ettie Woods, 
Miss A. Ward, 
Miss E. Way, 
Miss A. Way, 
Miss M. Yerkes, 
Miss Hester Yerkes, 
Miss Yates, 



Aid Society. 25 

Exhibit of Treasurer of Hartsville 

Ladies' .A.id Society. 

August 10, 1866. 



82,986.93 have been paid into the Treasury from various sources, 
and all disbursed except $230 now at interest, to be disposed of as 
ordered by the Society. 

39 Boxes have been Forwarded, as below : 

4 to Miss Pollock, Washington. 
1 to 104th P. V. 

7 to Mrs. Jones. 

1 to Cairo, 111. 

8 to Christian Commission. 

2 to Sanitary do. 
1 to Dr. A. S. Jones. 

3 to Mrs. Harris, Army of the Potomac. 

1 to Christian Street Hospital, Philadelphia. 

1 to Cumberland, Maryland. 

1 to Kentucky. 

1 to White House, Virginia. 

1 to Steamer Spalding. 

1 to Harrison's Landing. 

1 to Winchester, Virginia. 

1 to Annapolis, Maryland. 

2 to Philadelphia Ladies' Aid Society. 
1 to Tennessee. 

1 to White Hall Hospital. 
These boxes were valued at $4,050. 

Contents of Boxes, as follows : 

849 Shirts. 1 box Bottons. 

454 pair Drawers. 2 dozen Combs. 

195 Pillow Cases. 40 lbs. Sugars. 



26 



BfARTSVILLE LADIES' 



15 Wrappers. 
169 pair Mittens. 

92 " Socks. 
101 " Slippers. 
594 " Stockings. 

48 Bedsacks. 
164 Sheets. 
130 Pillows. 

49 Quilts. 

28 pair Pantaloons. 

2 Carpet Blankets. 
353 Towels. 

708 Handkerchiefs. 
222 Bandages. 

8 Slings. 
14 Pans. 
17 Pads. 

1 Roll Cotton. 

1 Box Medicines. 

3 Vests. 
3 Coats. 

9 Boys' Suits. 

3 Girls' Sacques. 
36 pieces Clothing for 

and Children. 
15J bushels Apples. 

2 barrels Pickles. 
1 barrel Crackers. 

Cheese in quantity. 



4 dozen Spoons. 
1 do. Tin Cups. 
22| lbs. Tea. 

Eye Shades, ad libitum. 
Spices, do. do. 

22 bushels Onions. 
8 do. Potatoes. 
1 do. Beets. 
\ bushel Strawberries. 

24 barrels Rusk. 

1 barrel Gingerbread. 
44 lbs. Farina. 
63£ lbs. Butter. 

25 dozen Eggs. 

4 cans Concentrated Soup. 
. 160 do. Fruit. 

66 bottles of Wine. 

5 gallons Tomatoes. 

4 Chickens. 

5 gallons Milk. 
1 lb. Coffee. 

1 gallon of Vinegar. 
4 cans Jelly. 
Women 3 lbs. Dried Apples. 

1 jar Pickled Cabbage. 
Pins v in quantity. 
Needles in quantity. 
23 Comfort Bags. 
Reading Matter^ assorted. 



LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 



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